A Review of the New HackRF PortaPack H4M

The PortaPack H4M by OpenSourceSDRLab is a new design of the HackRF PortaPack which comes with various improvements. The PortaPack H4M adds I2C capable GPIO ports, a USB-C connector, a built-in speaker and microphone, a better screen, a proper on/off button that won’t easily activate in a bag, flat design for easier storage, and improved charging speed.

The PortaPack H4M is currently available as a bundle for US$152 from Chinese manufacturer OpenSourceSDRLab. The bundle includes the PortaPack H4M PCB, and a HackRF R10c clone.  This is exceptionally good value, considering that an original HackRF (just the HackRF without PortaPack) sells for US$319. However, just be aware that by purchasing clones you are not supporting GreatScottGadgets, the original developers of the HackRF.

If you were unaware, the HackRF PortaPack is an accessory for the HackRF SDR that enables portable use, with a display, controls, and onboard processing for direct signal demodulation, modulation, decoding, and encoding, all without needing a computer.

Over on YouTube RocketGod has uploaded a video showing some of the PortPack H4M’s new features, how to install the Mayhem Firmware, and then showing it in action with it receiving a few signals.

We’ve also seen another video by sn0ren that also introduces and shows the PortaPack H4M in action.

YouTube Video

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